Still riding on the high of celebrating our Maple Leaf Festival with family and friends, our hearts are turning to holiday traditions just ahead.

While leaves continue to brighten then twirl down to carpet the days before us, our weeks for making preparations are quickly moving by. Menus are already being planned for Thanksgiving gatherings, as first boxes of yule decorations are fetched from attics and basements. By now, many among us are beginning our gift shopping.

For a wonderland of artist created gift items, artCentral’s second annual Hyde House Holiday Boutique—the ultimate shopping venue—is in the making for your pleasure and delight. Mark your calendar for December 1st, 2nd and 3rd and plan to visit our elegant setting filled with beauty, inspiration and pocket-friendly presents for everyone on your list. Admission is free for all three Holiday Boutique days. As always, donations to artCentral are welcome and greatly appreciated.

Featured again this year, in addition to artCentral artist creations, are artCentral’s signature potted and bowed scarlet amaryllis, planted to bloom at the peak of the holiday festivities. Each modestly priced amaryllis in this limited edition is presented in a sparkling gold container. Perfect for your own home, these beauties make perfect gifts for friends, family and business associates, as well. Reserve several and prepay by calling (417) 358-4404 in advance of the Boutique.

New this year is artCentral’s Holiday Boutique Silent Auction featuring 4x4 canvases created and donated by artCentral artists. Visit the Auction early to select your favorites and make your initial bids. The Silent Auction will continue until 3:30 pm on Saturday, December 3rd. Last minute bids may be phoned in to (417) 358-4404. All fund-raising proceeds will go toward artCentral’s continuing work on behalf of art and artists.

Behind the Holiday Boutique scene the call for artists is happening now!

CALL FOR ARTISTS: All artCentral artists, you’re invited to participate in artCentral’s second Hyde House Holiday Boutique​. As a participating Artist, you simply donate your created 4x4 canvas (available at artCentral for pickup) and deliver your gift items. artCentral does the merchandising! There are no vendor or booth fees for your participation as an artCentral artist. Artists receive 75% of individual sales. artCentral receives 25% to support work on behalf of art and artists. Space is limited. To register mail ASAP to artcentral@artcentralcarthage.org or call artCentral (417) 358-4404.